Stellenbosch

It's only natural, in the Winelands, you’ll be dedicating your itinerary to drinking, eating, and relaxing among the beautiful vineyards which dominate the region’s countryside. When you stay in Stellenbosch, you’ll discover so much more. Browse stunning works of art in the Dylan Lewis Studio & Sculpture Garden. Uncover the contrasts of South African life at Kayamandi township.

Cycle scenic trails or pedal between wineries. Hike trails through Jonkershoek Nature Reserve. Spas, golf courses, animal experiences, and live music can all be found on local wine estates and, from September to January, local farms open their gates and invite visitors to pick their own fruit. With so much to see and do, you’ll never regret adding an extra day.

Unlike other Wineland destinations, Stellenbosch is a lived-in university town with everything you’d expect from a historic European-style city. Galleries, museums, shopping, gardens, restaurants, and wine bars are open all year and housed among 18th-century Cape Dutch architecture and period homes. Wander the beautiful old buildings of Dorp Street, step into the past at Oom Samie Se Winkel general store, and uncover the story of the city at the Village Museum.

Find arts and crafts from South Africa and beyond at the Rupert Museum, Dorpstraat Gallery, SMAC, and the Red Teapot Gallery. For quieter days, Stellenbosch University Botanical Garden offers moments of tranquillity among a diverse collection of habitats while a collection of independent coffee shops are perfect for watching the world go by.

Stay in Stellenbosch and have access to more than 150 wine estates, each with its own personality.  Three routes on the town’s Vine Hopper bus showcase over 20 of these, or it's easy to arrange private transport and tours. Visit Middelvlei, where guests are invited to create their own unique blend. Discover Spier, where you can segway between fascinating outdoor sculptures, see birds of prey, or enjoy a pampering spa.

Stroll through the beautiful gardens of Delaire Graff. Play a round of golf at Hazendal. Travelling as a family? Kids will love seeing alpacas at Muratie, running around playgrounds and flying down zip-lines at Blaauwklippen, or watching thousands of Indian runner ducks at Vergenoegd Löw. You’ll also find gin and whisky tastings, historic manor houses, and some of the best restaurants in South Africa. There’s a winery to suit everyone in Stellenbosch.

The sun shines all year in the Winelands and the estates of Stellenbosch are always open. A long summer from September to April offers the lowest rainfall and highest temperatures with some days reaching 30°C. Crowds are at their height between November and February creating a lively atmosphere while those who prefer things quieter may choose to visit at other times.

Winter runs from May to August and temperatures can still rise to 20°C in daylight but cooler nights will require a jacket for comfort. Indoor activities are available throughout the year to help pass any showers or storms you might experience.